Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 63 travelers

A Week of Adventure in Uttarakhand on a Shoestring Budget

Monday, December 25: Arrival in Rishikesh

Welcome to Uttarakhand! Arrive in Rishikesh and start your trip by exploring the spiritual side of this vibrant city. In the morning, visit the iconic Triveni Ghat to witness the holy Ganges River Aarti. Afterward, head to the lively Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula bridges to enjoy the breathtaking views of the river and surrounding hills. In the evening, take part in a yoga or meditation class to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.

  • Triveni Ghat: Free, 1 hour
  • Laxman Jhula: Free, 1 hour
  • Ram Jhula: Free, 1 hour
  • Yoga/Meditation class: INR 200-500 ($3-7), 2 hours
Tuesday, December 26: Rishikesh Adventure

Indulge in thrilling outdoor activities offered in Rishikesh. Start your morning with a rafting expedition on the Ganges River, where you'll navigate through exciting rapids and enjoy the scenic beauty. In the afternoon, trek to the Neer Garh Waterfall, a hidden gem surrounded by lush greenery. End your day by witnessing the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

  • River Rafting: INR 600-1500 ($8-20), 3-4 hours
  • Neer Garh Waterfall trek: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan: Free, 1 hour
Wednesday, December 27: Mussoorie Escape

Take a day trip to Mussoorie, a charming hill station known as the "Queen of the Hills." Explore the Mall Road, shop for local handicrafts, and enjoy a cable car ride to Gun Hill for panoramic views of the Himalayan range. Visit Kempty Falls for a refreshing dip and embrace the natural beauty of the region. Return to Rishikesh in the evening.

  • Mall Road: Free, 2 hours
  • Cable Car to Gun Hill: INR 100 ($1.35), 1 hour
  • Kempty Falls: INR 50-100 ($0.70-1.35), 2-3 hours
Thursday, December 28: Haridwar Exploration

Embark on a day trip to Haridwar, another spiritual city in Uttarakhand. Begin your morning with a visit to Har Ki Pauri, the most sacred ghat of Haridwar, to witness the captivating Ganga Aarti. Explore the bustling streets of Haridwar and indulge in some local street food. In the afternoon, visit the Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple and Mansa Devi Temple for their cultural and historical significance.

  • Har Ki Pauri: Free, 1 hour
  • Street Food: INR 100-200 ($1.35-2.70), 1 hour
  • Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple: Free, 1 hour
  • Mansa Devi Temple: INR 100-150 ($1.35-2), 2 hours
Friday, December 29: Auli Winter Wonderland

Embark on an early morning journey to Auli, a picturesque hill station renowned for its ski slopes. Spend the morning skiing or snowboarding on the snowy slopes (rental equipment available). Afterward, explore Auli's scenic beauty by taking a cable car ride to Joshimath. Enjoy beautiful vistas of the Himalayas and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the region. Return to Rishikesh in the evening.

  • Skiing/Snowboarding: INR 500-1000 ($7-14) per hour, 4-5 hours
  • Auli Ropeway: INR 1000 ($14), 2 hours
Saturday, December 30: Nainital Lake City

Travel to the enchanting hill station of Nainital, known for its serene lakes and stunning landscapes. Start your day with a boat ride on Naini Lake, surrounded by lush hills. Explore the nearby Naina Devi Temple and stroll along the Mall Road, lined with shops selling souvenirs and local delicacies. Take a cable car ride to Tiffin Top for panoramic views of the Himalayas. Return to Rishikesh in the evening.

  • Naini Lake boat ride: INR 200 ($2.70), 1 hour
  • Naina Devi Temple: Free, 1 hour
  • Mall Road: Free, 2 hours
  • Tiffin Top cable car: INR 150 ($2), 1 hour
Sunday, December 31: Rishikesh Farewell

On your last day, savor the tranquil vibes of Rishikesh once more. Start your day by visiting the spiritual Beatles Ashram, where the famous band stayed and practiced meditation. Indulge in a leisurely breakfast at a riverside cafe and spend the afternoon exploring the local markets for unique handicrafts and clothing. In the evening, bid farewell to Rishikesh with a serene boat ride on the Ganges River.

  • Beatles Ashram: INR 150 ($2), 2 hours
  • Riverside cafe breakfast: INR 200-500 ($3-7), 1 hour
  • Local market shopping: INR 500-1000 ($7-14), 2 hours
  • Ganges River boat ride: INR 300 ($4), 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Rishikesh, be sure to explore the less crowded areas near the banks of the Ganges River. Visit the Waterfall Beach, a hidden spot where you can enjoy a peaceful picnic and take a dip in the river. Another local favorite is the Kunjapuri Devi Temple, located on top of a hill. Witness a majestic sunrise or sunset while enjoying panoramic views of the Himalayas. These offbeat attractions offer a serene escape from the bustling city life at an affordable cost.

Check hotel and flight prices
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version